Almost There!!

The Environmental Caucus of DPH (along with scientists, non-governmental organizations, and numerous individuals) worked hard to make sure SB1240 passed both the State House of Representatives and Senate.

The bill requires the Department of Land and Natural Resources to submit proposed legislation by the 2019 regular session including a definition of “sustainable”, a policy for sustainable collection practices of near shore aquatic life, a process for determining limits on collection practices of near shore aquatic life, and any additional resources required by the department. It also prohibits issuance of new aquarium permits, transfer of current permits subject to certain provisions, and renewal of permits that have not been renewed for five or more years.

This issue is one of the priority issues chosen by our caucus and our party this legislative session to ensure that our reefs are healthy and vibrant for generations to come. This article in Civil Beat gives a fair summary of the issue.

Thanks to our Democratic Representatives and Senators, it passed the legislature and now sits on the Governor’s desk awaiting his signature. Governor Ige, however, has listed SB1240 as one of the bills that he may VETO.

Please email the Governor’s Office Brandon.T.Asuka@hawaii.gov and let Governor Ige know that you support SB1240. You can also call his office and voice your support: (808) 586-0034

PLEASE SEND or CALL ASAP. The Governor needs to hear from us today!!

Natural Resources Subcommittee
Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaii

Below is some suggested language (copy, paste, and personalize):
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Aloha Governor Ige:
Thank you for your leadership of our state. As a proud Democrat and supporter of our environment, I wanted to encourage you to sign SB1240 into law. As you know, our reefs are a vital part of our ecosystem and a natural resource for residents and visitors alike. Unlimited collection of near shore aquatic life poses a serious threat to our oceans and is an issue that must be addressed in order to help preserve our environment. This issue is also one of the priorities chosen by the Democratic Party of Hawaii this legislative session.

SB1240 will help ensure that our reefs remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come. Please sign this important bill into law.